Letters To The Editor

Some of reviewer’s comments out of line

Jim Kershner’s “review” (IN Life, Feb. 6) of (the Feb. 2) concert at The Met was far stranger than the show’s atmosphere.

He could not have been more effusive in his praise of Leo Kottke, who did indeed put on a very fine performance, but anyone who was there can only guess what hidden agenda promoted the snide remarks constituting the rest of Kershner’s “review.”

Neither the well-dressed Zoological Society members who hosted the show nor the few local Hell’s Angels stood out in the sellout crowd. The other 725 people in the audience represented every segment of the community, and their attire ran the gamut from dressy to casual.

The motorcycles on stage and the original motorcycle art in the lobby were intended as bright, fun backdrops for the midwinter show. Everyone but Kershner seemed to enjoy both.

The chaps auctioned at intermission were donated to raise money to feed zoo animals, as were proceeds from ticket sales.

When informed of Kershner’s “review,” Kottke was appalled that anyone would use his joke about doing benefits to trash the show and promote a private vendetta. Kottke knew it was a benefit and was glad to lend his support, unlike Kershner, who didn’t even pay for his ticket.

Finally, Kershner’s rude remarks about J.W. Everitt were completely unwarranted. Everitt’s acoustic music is every bit as polished as Kottke’s.

Although his style is different, some of his guitar playing exceeds Kottke’s in sheer beauty and intricacy. Despite Kershner’s derogatory characterization, the audience obviously enjoyed Everitt’s performance. Carol L. Chaffee, owner, Somali Music Spokane